The Miami Dolphins are now 1-4 on the season after dropping a brutal loss to the Carolina Panthers. After multiple turnovers and a 17-0 lead, the Dolphins started to lose ground little by little.
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Miami gave up 239 yards on the ground, with Panthers’ Rico Dowdle securing 206 yards and a touchdown as part of that rushing clinic. With the Dolphins not being able to stop the run at all, they could simply not catch Carolina in the fourth quarter.
The Dolphins did take a 24-20 lead on the Panthers late into the fourth quarter on a Tua Tagovailoa bomb to Jaylen Waddle, but the Panthers answered back with more chunk yardage on the ground. A costly pass interference penalty also stopped Miami in its tracks to attempt a comeback.
Naturally, the Dolphins team is frustrated with another loss, and Tagovailoa and head coach Mike McDaniel spoke to the media about the loss. However, one player who was meant to be interviewed refused to do so.
Dolphins star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick declined to speak to the media, according to Miami beat writer Joe Schad. He did indicate that he would speak during the week, but has “nothing to say” following the loss.
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It is hard not to understand Fitzpatrick’s frustration and not wanting to talk, especially after the Dolphins blew such a massive lead. Fitzpatrick secured an interception, and Bryce Young fumbled the ball on a strip sack from Bradley Chubb, but that wasn’t enough to keep Miami in front.
The Panthers’ defense completely shut down the Dolphins in the third quarter, and their fourth quarter touchdown wasn’t enough to hold the lead. Miami needs to reassess its roster to bring in players who can help stop the run.
The Dolphins have given up 436 rushing yards to their last two opponents. That is clearly a major reason why this team is struggling.
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